JLC3DP Blog

Technology Comparison

PolyJet Alternatives: Compare Full Color 3D Printing Technologies

What Is PolyJet 3D Printing? PolyJet, commercialized by companies like Stratasys, is one of the most widely recognized material jetting technologies for high-resolution, multi-material 3D printing. PolyJet usually enters the conversation when a project demands a level of detail that standard FDM or SLS just can't touch (Here’s a comparison of FDM vs SLS vs SLA if you want to look into that). Unlike other additive processes that extrude a bead of plastic or melt a bed of powder, PolyJet operates more l......

Apr 21, 2026

Cost & ROI

3D Printing Cost Comparison: Injection Molding, CNC, and Traditional Manufacturing

Understanding the 3D Printing Cost Comparison When an engineering team sits down for a 3D printing cost comparison, they can't just find the lowest quote for a single part. The engineers have to map how the price-per-unit shifts as you move from a "one-off" prototype to a thousand-unit production run. A single 3D-printed housing might run you $40, while a traditional machined version could cost triple that due to setup time. However, the math flips once you scale. For hardware startups and product dev......

Apr 23, 2026

Post-Processing

Why Your 3D Prints Need Threaded Inserts: MJF & SLA Guide

Designing reliable threads in plastic parts is one of those details that seems simple until a prototype actually gets assembled. A screw may go in fine the first time — maybe even the second. After that, the threads start to loosen, plastic begins to deform, and the joint slowly loses its grip. This is where engineers typically weigh two options: printing threads directly into the part, or installing threaded inserts for 3d printed parts. Both approaches have their place. Printed threads can work well......

Apr 15, 2026

Cost & ROI

9 Reasons Why You Should NOT Buy a 3D Printer

(Freepik) So, you're thinking of buying a 3D printer. The internet’s hyped it up, your buddy won’t shut up about his Benchy prints, and you're wondering: “Is a 3D printer worth it?” Here’s the thing, ometimes, it’s not. Owning a 3D printer sounds futuristic until you’re knee-deep in filament spaghetti, failed layers, and firmware updates. If you’re hoping it’ll magically solve all your making needs, you’re in for a wake-up call. Before you spend a chunk of cash and desk space, here are 9 reasons you m......

Jun 20, 2025

Plastics

PETG Filament for 3D Printing: Properties & Settings Guide

In 3D printing, choosing the right printing material is crucial. PETG is a common 3D printing filament material that is ideal for 3D printing enthusiasts and professionals due to its superior strength, ease of use, and suitability for a wide range of applications. Compared with materials like PLA and ABS, PETG offers better toughness and durability. If you're deciding between materials, you can check our guide on PETG vs PLA for 3D printing. This article will explore the characteristics of PETG 3D pri......

Oct 28, 2024

Plastics

Why MJF Filament Doesn't Exist: Powder vs. Filament Explained

What Searchers Really Want to Know Users frequently ask questions like “Does HP MJF use filament?” or “Can MJF print nylon filament?” because they want the strength and quality of Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) on their FDM printers. This search for "MJF filament" reflects a desire to access premium MJF material properties easily. Need any MJF prototyping service? 3D printing service expert JLC3DP can help you turn your ideas into life. Get professional MJF printing starting from just $1, with fast lead times......

Nov 29, 2025